Hopi-Tewa Polychrome Jar by Jacob Koopee [SOLD]

Jacob Myron Koopee (1970-2011) Jake Nampeyo was an exceptional artist and always pushed the envelope to create designs that were traditional, yet unique and modern.  In this seed jar, which appears to be an early work by him, Koopee restricted the design to the upper shoulder of the vessel. He framed the design with a dark brown rim and dark brown framing line at the midpoint.  

The design is a mixture of Sikyatki-influenced elements arranged in four panels. There are two panels of one design and two panels of another design. The design panels that are the same are on opposing sides.  Each line, square, triangle or other shape was placed on in the most intricate arrangement and with the most precise painting, as was the standard approach by Koopee.

Jacob Myron Koopee passed away in the summer of 2011 at the early age of 41 years. He was the grandson of Marie Koopee, great-grandson of Nellie Nampeyo and great-great-grandson of Nampeyo of Hano. He was at the height of his career and had received many awards for his pottery. He was accepted as one of the finest of contemporary Hopi potters. His is a great loss to collectors.

Condition: this Hopi-Tewa Polychrome Jar by Jacob Koopee is in excellent condition

Provenance: from the Southwest Indian Pottery collection of a gentleman from Washington State

Recommended Reading: Hopi-Tewa Pottery: 500 Artist Biographies by Gregory and Angie Schaaf